Georgians meet in Athens to rally for marijuana legalization

“We noticed that the mayor (Nancy Denson) here supported decriminalization and doesn’t think people should be arrested for possession and stigmatized for the rest of their lives,” CARE director James Bell said. “We’re here to support that and bring attention to our cause.”

The states of Colorado and Washington have passed marijuana legalization bills, but Bell didn’t endorse either for Georgia.

“I would like to see it the way that Georgia feels comfortable doing it. I’m a Libertarian. I want full legalization and how they get there I don’t really care,” he said.

In fact, Bell said he plans to meet soon with state Sen. Curt Thompson of Gwinnett County in regards to a broader and more comprehensive bill that allows for the cultivation of marijuana.

Those at the rally ranged from University of Georgia freshman student Josh Wayne, who established a campus chapter of Georgia CARE, to 62-year-old Bob Reardon of Cumming, who traveled to Athens to offer his support.

“There is a yearning by people to step up and get the message out that something should be done,” said Reardon, who said legalization could produce a new cash crop for farmers.

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James Bell

James Bell has been active in the marijuana reform movement since 1988. He has become the face and the voice of reform in Georgia and founded Georgia C.A.R.E. in 2012.
James is Georgia's registered lobbyist for marijuana issues and works with media, lawmakers and the public on educational projects.